Start a Business in New York State

The first step to starting a business is choosing your business structure and filing the required paperwork. Each business structure has different legal and tax requirements.

The main types of business structures are:

• Sole proprietorships
• General partnerships
• Business corporations
• Limited liability companies (LLCs)
• Limited partnerships

Learn more about the different types of business structures on the Department of State's website.

Get your Federal Tax ID

A Federal Tax ID, also known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN), may be needed to:

• File taxes
• Open a bank account
• Apply for a loan
• Meet other business requirements

Visit the IRS website to apply.

Register as a NYS Sales Tax Vendor

If your business intends to sell taxable goods or services, apply for a Certificate of Authority from the the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance.

Licensing and Permitting

Not all businesses require a license or permit. Use Business Express to find the requirements for your business and apply online. You will need to set up a NY.Gov ID to submit new applications or manage your existing licenses and permits online.

Register a Business Name (DBA)

If you intend to do business under a name other than your legal business name, you may need to file an assumed name certificate, also known as a DBA. Visit the Department of State website for filing information.

Insurance Requirements

Depending on your business structure, location, and number of employees, your business may need the following types of insurance coverage:

• Unemployment Insurance
• Workers’ compensation
• Disability benefits coverage
• Paid Family Leave benefits coverage

Unemployment Insurance can be obtained through the NYS Department of Labor. Workers’ compensation and disability benefits coverage can be obtained through the New York State Insurance Fund or a private insurance carrier.

If your business is not required to carry workers’ compensation and/or disability benefits and Paid Family Leave coverage, complete the CE-200 form (Certificate of Attestation of Exemption).

Other Insurance

You may also need other types of insurance, such as health insurance. For more information about health insurance, visit the NYS Department of Health.

Before you open your business, there is a wealth of information and resources for you to determine how to best move forward. This includes start-up assistance, business planning and training, capital financing options, and research/market data.

Start-Up Assistance

• NYS Small Business Development Center: Get free counseling to help start your business, receive training on how to write a business and marketing plan, plus other tips on doing business with the state
• NYS Empire State Development: Get technical and small business assistance

Accessing Capital and Incentives

• NYS Empire State Development: Explore loan options, available grant, tax credits, and receive financing and technical assistance

Market Research

• SizeUp - Small Business Administration Online Tool: Map your competition, benchmark performance and find the best places to advertise

• NYS Department of Labor Data Center: Compare wages across the state and by industry

• NYS Office of Real Property Tax Services: Research local tax rates across New York